Released in 2020, Instagram Reels （連續短片）represents Instagram’s response to TikTok. It is abrand new feature of Instagram that allows users to shoot short 15 second videos. Most users have viewed Reels as Instagram’s version of Tiktok. As a matter of fact, Reels shares many of the same features and functions of TikTok. This is why people always like to compare the two platforms （平臺）when it comes to video content.
If you have used TikTok before, this would sound familiar. Much like TikTok, Reels allows users to post short video clips that end up on a seemingly endless feed of other clips for viewers to scroll through. Besides, features like TikTok’s “Duet” are mirrored by Reels’s “Remix”. With the exit of TikTok in some parts of the world, Instagram took advantage of the situation and rolled out（推出）Reels as an alternative（替代品）. The feature has been launched in 50 countries across the globe. Like TikTok, the feature allows users to create videos on the app. Reels believes its appeal（吸引力）is wider and more powerful because users can get creative not only with filters and other special effects but also by choosing music from the ever-expanding（不斷擴大的）massive music library that it offers. Those who love popular culture would certainly like to learn more great music with this music function. Users who have had a hard time adding music to their video clip can now use a mix of currently trending（時尚的）songs and on-brand（優質品牌的）songs to keep their content popular.
Like TikTok, the minimum age for users of Reels is 13. It should be noted that Instagram’s policies require their users to be 13 or older. Many parents, however, allow their kids to have accounts. If parents notice their kids are using Instagram Reels, here are some parental tips as recommended by Child Rescue Coalition in order to keep their kids safe.
- Watch IG Reels with your kids. Don’t let them explore unsupervised（無人監督）.
- Keep your account private so you can manage who watches your child’s content.
- Don’t use hashtags（發文時用來描述主題的#號）as they can attract predators（尾隨傷害他人者）. They can attract strangers and give opportunities for unwelcome interaction.
- Filter comments through Instagram’s privacy settings to protect against offensive comments.
- Set a daily timer to limit use through Instagram’s settings. Like other social media apps, Instagram can be highly addictive（上癮）. Set a time for the app to give you a reminder on when you should stop your kids using it.
